TWO local companies from Warwickshire joined 100 fellow exporters from across the UK at a reception at Downing Street this week.

The local firms were invited to No 10 by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, in recognition of their business success in overseas markets and their contribution to the UK economy.

The local firms were Ricardo, from Leamington, who are innovators in advanced clean diesel technology, hybrid and electric vehicle systems, and Leamington-based Flip-In Hair, which was set up by a Warwickshire mum and now exports hair extensions to Europe, Australia and India.